In Wheel Time Podcast

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The Future of Cars: Student-Run Auto Shows and Luxury SUVs Sep 15, 2025

Show notes

From $150 million in exotic cars managed by college students to the plush comfort of a six-figure luxury SUV, this episode of In Wheel Time takes you on a journey through the fascinating intersections of automotive education and innovation.
Katrina Ness, the 62nd general chair of the Northwood University International Auto Show, joins us to discuss what might be the most unique automotive event in America. As a fourth-year student pursuing her MBA, Katrina leads what she describes as "an organization with the most turnover" - a completely student-run auto show featuring hypercars, racing vehicles, and nearly every automotive brand imaginable. With minimal faculty oversight, these 20-something students are entrusted with approximately $150 million worth of automotive assets, including a Bugatti Mistral fresh from Europe and a LaFerrari previously owned by Drake.
Beyond the jaw-dropping vehicle lineup, we explore how Northwood University's specialized automotive marketing and management program prepares students for industry careers through hands-on experience. Katrina candidly shares how managing such a massive event has taught her as much about anxiety management as automotive marketing - skills that transcend the classroom and prepare students for real-world challenges.
We then shift gears to examine the 2025 Lexus LX600, a luxury SUV that combines opulence with surprising performance. Despite replacing the traditional V8 with a turbocharged V6, this seven-passenger behemoth delivers 409 horsepower and can tow 8,000 pounds while improving fuel efficiency. From its signature oversized spindle grille to unexpected features like a center console that doubles as a refrigerator, we explore what makes this $114,500 vehicle stand out in the crowded luxury SUV market.
Whether you're fascinated by the next generation of automotive professionals or shopping for your next luxury vehicle, this episode offers unique insights into both the present and future of car culture. Subscribe to In Wheel Time for more expert automotive analysis, behind-the-scenes industry access, and straightforward vehicle reviews delivered with authentic enthusiasm.

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Behind the Scenes at Savoy Car Museum's Connection Show Sep 12, 2025

Show notes

The Savoy Car Museum's annual Connection Car Show has evolved into a spectacular gathering of automotive enthusiasts, exceeding all expectations in its third year. Located in Cartersville, Georgia, between Atlanta and Chattanooga, this expanding event showcases the passion and diversity of car culture across the Southeast.
Mary Argusza takes us behind the scenes as spectators line up before dawn, eager to experience both the outdoor car show and the museum's impressive indoor exhibits. The museum itself spans 60,000 square feet with five distinct galleries, featuring a strategic rotation system that ensures fresh experiences for repeat visitors. Currently, guests can explore exhibits like "Harvest to Highway" with agricultural vehicles, small block muscle cars, racing Jaguars, and an extraordinary collection of ten Duesenbergs representing every iteration of these legendary automobiles.
What makes the Connection Car Show particularly special is its organic growth through word-of-mouth and collaborative relationships with regional car clubs. Though organizers capped show car entries at 300 vehicles, spectator turnout far exceeded expectations, with parking overflowing onto grassy areas surrounding the facility. The event has expanded into a two-day experience featuring a Friday driving tour culminating at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, followed by Saturday's main show with People's Choice awards and the coveted Savoy Award.
Unique vehicles dotted the landscape, from pristine classics to modified hot rods, with surprising finds like a Minneapolis Moline tractor featuring a cab and jump seat – capable of 40mph speeds but requiring "the length of a train" to stop due to its rudimentary drum brakes. These automotive treasures, primarily from Georgia and surrounding states, showcase the remarkable collections hidden in garages throughout the region.
Ready to experience automotive history through a fresh lens? Plan your visit to the Savoy Car Museum and mark your calendar for next year's Connection Car Show – an event that celebrates our enduring fascination with wheels, engines, and the freedom of the open road.

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When Grandpa Should Park It... Sep 11, 2025

Show notes

Deciding when an elderly parent should stop driving ranks among family life's most challenging conversations. Now, General Motors is developing technology to transform this emotional decision into a data-driven process. Their innovative "driver retirement score" system monitors everything from reaction times to proper use of turn signals, even tracking how often other drivers honk at the vehicle. This comprehensive approach could revolutionize how families approach driving cessation discussions with aging relatives.
The timing couldn't be more critical. With nearly 52 million licensed drivers over 65 in America—a 77% increase in just two decades—we're facing unprecedented road safety challenges. According to Triple A, seniors now outlive their ability to drive safely for the first time in history, creating a need for "driving retirement planning" similar to financial retirement planning.
But the technology raises fascinating questions about parameters and privacy. Would someone who enjoys driving fast automatically receive a poor score? How might different interpretations of complete stops at stop signs affect results? These considerations highlight the complexity of designing systems that identify genuinely unsafe behaviors while accommodating varied driving styles.
Beyond the elderly driver technology discussion, we explore the completely redesigned 2026 Hyundai Palisade. Priced at $58,030 as tested, it offers tremendous value compared to competitors like the Ford Expedition King Ranch at over $86,000. While the Palisade impresses with modern styling and luxurious features, its 3.5-liter V6 struggles somewhat with the vehicle's 5,000-pound weight. We also cover major racing news with Will Power leaving Penske after 17 years to join Andretti's IndyCar team, while Colton Herta prepares for a potential Formula One future.
Ready to learn more about automotive innovations, value-packed SUVs, and the future of driving safety? Listen now and join our conversation about the technologies reshaping our relationship with vehicles at every stage of life.

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Regrettable Rides, Texas Trains, and the new Palisade Sep 10, 2025

Show notes

Climb aboard as we journey through Texas heritage railways and drive some of the most disappointing dream cars ever made. This episode starts with a nostalgic look at Texas' historic train routes transformed into tourist attractions. From the inmate-built Texas State Railroad to the Grapevine Vintage Railroad's themed excursions (including beer trains and Thomas the Tank Engine days), we explore how these metal ribbons of history now create new memories for visitors.
The conversation shifts gears dramatically when we reveal six dream cars that owners deeply regret purchasing. The Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake with its endless repair bills, the eco-friendly but perpetually broken Fisker Karma, and the gorgeous but temperamental Alfa Romeo 4C all made the list. These automotive heartbreakers promise exotic looks and driving thrills but deliver wallet-draining disappointment. We explore why the first-generation Tesla Roadster, futuristic BMW i8, and even James Bond's Lotus Esprit leave owners shaken, not stirred.
We wrap up with a comprehensive review of the redesigned 2026 Hyundai Palisade. This seven-passenger SUV impresses with its distinctive styling, comfortable interior with customizable lighting, and competitive pricing at $58,300 for the tested Calligraphy AWD trim. However, the 3.5L V6 engine struggles with the vehicle's substantial 5,000-pound weight, particularly during highway passing maneuvers. Is the Palisade the right family hauler for you? Listen to our full assessment and compare it to competitors like the Chevy Suburban Premier ($78,095) and Ford Expedition King Ranch ($86,000). Have you experienced any dream car regrets or train adventures? Share your stories with us!

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Teen Driving Dangers: What Parents Need to Know Sep 09, 2025

Show notes

The financial shock of adding a teenage driver to your insurance policy can feel like a sucker punch to your wallet. In Texas, parents face an average premium increase of 114% – the fourth highest in the nation according to WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo, our special guest this week. While Texas ranks middle-of-the-pack (28th) for teen driver fatalities, this statistic offers little comfort to parents navigating the treacherous waters of teen driving safety and skyrocketing insurance costs.
Diving into strategies that actually work, our hosts share personal experiences with driver education approaches across generations. We explore the evolving landscape from school-based programs taught by PE coaches to modern combinations of parent-led instruction and professional driving schools. The conversation reveals an important truth: teens often respond better to driving instruction from authority figures who aren't their parents. Meanwhile, insurance companies offer various paths to lower those painful premiums, including good student discounts and monitoring devices that track driving habits.
Beyond teen driving concerns, we cover breaking automotive news including a massive immigration enforcement operation at a Hyundai-LG plant in Georgia, the first-ever Vehicle Quality and Pricing Index showing Buick, Mazda and Toyota leading mainstream brands in reliability and affordability, and a shocking dealership embezzlement case in Midland where the former GM allegedly stole up to $150,000 through various fraudulent activities. Jeff rounds out the episode with a packed calendar of upcoming car shows and events across Texas. Whether you're raising a teen driver or simply passionate about automotive culture, this episode delivers valuable insights and entertaining discussion about the challenges facing today's drivers.
Join us live every Saturday morning 8-11am Central on Facebook, YouTube, Twitch and InWheelTime.com, or catch our podcasts on all major platforms.

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Road Safety Spotlight: School Buses, Pedestrians, and Dream Cars Sep 08, 2025

Show notes

Road safety takes center stage in this eye-opening episode where we tackle the often misunderstood rules of school bus safety. When those yellow lights start flashing, too many drivers make potentially deadly mistakes. We break down exactly what you need to do when approaching a school bus on various road types and why following these rules is absolutely critical for protecting our children.
We uncover a concerning reality about vehicle safety technology that many drivers don't realize—while your car's sensors might detect other vehicles, older models often completely miss pedestrians. This technological blind spot creates serious risks, especially in residential areas where children may dart into the street unexpectedly. Our discussion provides practical advice for staying vigilant behind the wheel, particularly for drivers of larger vehicles with limited visibility.
The episode shifts gears to explore dream cars that became nightmares for their owners. From the Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake with its endless repair bills to the eco-friendly Fisker Karma that kept mechanics in business, we reveal six prestigious vehicles that left their owners with serious buyer's remorse. Whether it's the beautiful but problematic Alfa Romeo 4C or the space-age BMW i8 that cost more to maintain than some mortgages, these cautionary tales might make you think twice before pursuing that automotive fantasy.
For those seeking unique travel experiences, our "Riding the Rails" segment showcases Texas's diverse heritage railroads. From the historic Texas State Railroad to themed excursions on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad (including adults-only wine trains!), these rail journeys offer a refreshing alternative to traditional road trips. Discover the rich history and scenic beauty of Texas from a different perspective—all without worrying about traffic or navigation.
What driving safety tips have saved you from disaster? Share your experiences and join our live broadcast every Saturday morning from 8-11am Central. Find our podcasts wherever you listen—Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or Amazon Music.

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Rusty Gold: How One Woman Revolutionized Car Auctions Sep 05, 2025

Show notes

Labor Day Replay:

A divine prophecy, a kitchen cupboard full of auction school applications, and a career-defining first sale scheduled right after 9/11 – these unlikely elements converged to launch Yvette Vanderbrink into the world of automotive auctioneering, where she's spent 25 years specializing in barn finds and collector vehicles that others often don't know how to handle.
Vanderbrink takes us behind the scenes of her recent Montana auction featuring 604 vehicles from three generations of collecting, explaining the logistical nightmares of conducting sales in remote locations with no cell service or electricity. With refreshing candor, she shares stories of overcoming sexism in the industry, including the memorable response to a man who suggested she "make a sandwich and let the boys do it" – she simply took away his bidder number.
The psychology of car collecting emerges as a fascinating thread, with Yvette noting vehicles are "easier to come home than they are to leave," explaining how modest collections transform into hoarding situations. The thrill of the hunt often supersedes practical restoration plans, leading to expansive collections awaiting "someday" projects – something she witnessed firsthand with her father's 228-car collection.
Don Armstrong provides a thorough review of the 2025 Kia Niro Hybrid, highlighting its impressive 53 mpg city fuel economy, attractive styling with Volvo-esque taillights, and competitive $26,990 starting price. The "small station wagon" (according to government classification) earns praise for its unique design elements, simple interior controls, and outstanding efficiency, positioning it as an ideal urban commuter vehicle.
Whether you're fascinated by barn finds with stories to tell, considering an efficient hybrid for your daily commute, or simply enjoy authentic car talk from passionate enthusiasts, this episode delivers entertainment and insights that will have you looking at both forgotten classics and modern hybrids in a new light.

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Holy Hemis! A Tour of Automotive Treasures Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

Labor Day Replay:

Step inside the legendary Hemi Hideout, where automotive dreams come to life in spectacular fashion. Once housed in a simple barn, John Hovas's remarkable Mopar collection now resides in this purpose-built sanctuary that celebrates American muscle in its most glorious forms.
The collection tells a story that began when John was just 18 years old in 1970, explaining his particular affinity for vehicles from that era. From the moment you walk in, you're surrounded by automotive royalty – numbers-matching rarities that represent some of the most sought-after configurations in Mopar history.
The stars of the show include a 1970 Plymouth Superbird, whose radical aerodynamic design literally changed NASCAR racing before being banned for its dominance. With its distinctive nose cone and towering rear spoiler (strong enough to support a person's weight), it represents a pivotal moment in racing history as one of only 277 produced with the coveted 440 six-pack configuration.
But perhaps nothing captures the essence of this collection better than John's personal favorite – a 1971 Plymouth Cuda in Sublime Pearl green. This restomod masterpiece houses an all-aluminum 528 cubic inch Hemi V8 producing an earth-shaking 739 horsepower, channeled through a five-speed manual with the iconic pistol grip shifter. With its tubbed rear end accommodating massive 22-inch tires, it perfectly balances vintage character with modern performance.
The stories behind these vehicles prove just as fascinating as their specifications – like the ultra-rare 1970 Plymouth Roadrunner convertible recovered after spending 25 years underwater, or the 1966 Plymouth Belvedere with just 10,000 original miles that remains unrestored and numbers-matching. Each car represents not just engineering excellence, but a piece of American automotive heritage preserved for future generations.
Want to experience this automotive paradise yourself? The Hemi Hideout occasionally opens its doors to visitors, with admission fees going directly to charity and doubled through John's personal contribution. Come witness this extraordinary collection where passion, history, and horsepower converge in spectacular fashion.

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2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9: Luxury Meets Electric in a Full-Size Package Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

Luxury electric vehicles have reached a new milestone with the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9, a groundbreaking full-size three-row SUV that combines spaciousness, cutting-edge design, and impressive electric performance. Fresh off the assembly line in Ellabelle, Georgia, this American-made Korean masterpiece showcases what happens when minimalist aesthetics meet maximum functionality.
The exterior strikes an immediate impression with its clean, horizontal elements and distinctive lighting signatures that give it a unique presence on the road. But it's inside where the Ioniq 9 truly shines. The spacious interior accommodates up to nine passengers across various configurations, though the six-passenger layout with second-row captain's chairs delivers the most impressive feature: seats that recline almost completely flat with integrated footrests, transforming your vehicle into a mobile lounge. The elongated, integrated infotainment system flows seamlessly with the instrument cluster in a design that feels both intuitive and futuristic.
Power comes from an electric drivetrain delivering up to 422 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque in top-tier models, propelling this three-ton vehicle with surprising grace. With 335 miles of range, a 5,000-pound towing capacity, and smooth, limousine-like handling, the Ioniq 9 makes a compelling case for electric family transportation. Starting at $58,955 and ranging up to $77,540 for fully-loaded models, it positions itself against competitors like the slightly more affordable Kia EV9 and the premium BMW iX. The future of family SUVs is here—would you make the electric switch for your next vehicle purchase?

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Behind the Wheel with IHRA Division Director Doug Foley Sep 02, 2025

Show notes

Labor Day Replay:

Drag racing fans rejoice! The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is roaring back onto the scene with a full revival that includes the return of Top Fuel racing after a 15-year absence. Division Director Doug Foley joins us to share the exciting developments happening within one of drag racing's most storied organizations.
Founded in 1971 by Larry Carrier at Bristol International Speedway, IHRA has long represented an alternative approach to drag racing. After recent ownership changes, the organization has recommitted to both grassroots racing and professional nitro categories with a fresh perspective. Foley reveals that IHRA now owns five racetracks across the country and has attracted full fields of Top Fuel and Funny Car competitors for their upcoming national events.
What makes IHRA's approach different? Their racer-friendly philosophy shines through in everything from event structure to insurance coverage. While maintaining similar safety standards to other sanctioning bodies, IHRA has streamlined their competition format to two-day shows with fewer qualifying sessions, allowing teams to compete for substantial purses ($50,000 to win) with significantly lower operating costs. Their comprehensive insurance program provides racers with $1 million in liability coverage plus additional benefits rarely seen in motorsports.
The 2024 IHRA season kicks off July 9-12 at National Trail Raceway near Columbus, Ohio, featuring a diverse lineup of classes including Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Mod, and the IHRA-originated Mountain Motor Pro Stock category. With notable drivers like Scott Palmer, Dale Creasy Jr., and Terry Haddock committed to competing, this revival represents not just a trip down memory lane but a viable new path forward for drag racing that balances spectacle with sustainability.
Whether you're a longtime IHRA supporter or simply a drag racing enthusiast looking for more nitro-powered action, this renaissance deserves your attention. Follow IHRA.com for event updates, driver announcements, and streaming information as they continue writing an exciting new chapter in drag racing history.

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